As the 2025 fantasy baseball draft season approaches, late-round third basemen present lucrative opportunities for savvy managers. Maikel Garcia of the Kansas City Royals is projected to bounce back after a disappointing 2024, leveraging his speed on the base paths. Though his batting average dipped, his elite baserunning stats suggest significant upside, making him a potential steal at an ADP of 204.

Josh Jung of the Texas Rangers, recovering from a wrist injury, started strong last season. With a career barrel rate of 11.2%, he holds promise if he can stay healthy, making him an intriguing option at an ADP of 215. Meanwhile, Joey Ortiz is transitioning to shortstop for the Brewers, which may enhance his playing time and fantasy value, projecting to provide solid but unspectacular stats.

Chicago Cubs' prospect Matt Shaw could thrive given the opportunity to start after a strong minor league season, and Deyvison De Los Santos from the Marlins has shown a tantalizing power-speed combination but remains a risk due to his inconsistent performance.

Baseball season is officially underway with spring training games providing noteworthy action. Players like Elly De La Cruz displayed power as he homered from both sides, a potential sign of improvement against lefties, which was a struggle for him last season. Ceddanne Rafaela's revamped swing looks promising, and he could carve out a significant role as Boston's everyday center fielder. Maikel Garcia also showcased swing adjustments aimed at bouncing back from a dip in batting average.

New swing mechanics were a common theme, with Thairo Estrada's solid performance indicating he might be a hidden gem for late middle infield needs. Danny Jansen's home run highlights his potential in two-catcher formats, especially with the advantageous conditions at the Rays' minor league park. Meanwhile, young prospects like Orelvis Martinez and Luke Keaschall are making their cases for roster spots, demonstrating both power and reliability. Pitchers are equally noteworthy, with Chris Sale and Sandy Alcantara showing promising velocity. The competition for rotation spots is heating up, setting an exciting tone for the season ahead.

The Kansas City Royals have made a significant move by signing All-Star relief pitcher Carlos Estévez to a two-year contract with an option for a third year, strengthening their bullpen. This acquisition raises the question of whether the team will seek to trade some of their existing relief pitchers, such as 25-year-old lefty Angel Zerpa, who may no longer fit into their plans as a primary setup man. If the Royals trade Zerpa, they could package him along with other assets to acquire a high-upside bat, which they desperately need.

One name being floated in trade discussions is shortstop Bo Bichette from the Toronto Blue Jays, particularly if the Blue Jays' playoff aspirations falter. Bichette endured a disappointing 2024 season, plagued by injuries, but his prior accolades include being a two-time All-Star and a leader in hits in the American League. If the Royals could land him, they'd have to make adjustments to their infield, with Bichette likely shifting to second base, allowing Bobby Witt Jr. to remain at shortstop. While the deal hinges on Toronto's willingness to move Bichette, it demonstrates Kansas City's ambition to improve their roster significantly.

The Kansas City Royals are weighing their options for the Opening Day third baseman, with Maikel Garcia's performance in 2024 raising questions about his future. Despite being a promising player, Garcia struggled significantly, leading to speculation about a potential trade.

Yoan Moncada, a former top prospect now available on the open market, could be a viable alternative for the Royals. After a challenging career marked by injuries, Moncada has shown flashes of his potential and might be a cost-effective solution for Kansas City.

The Kansas City Royals are looking to bolster their offense for the 2024 season, particularly at third base, where they struggled with a weak platoon. Bobby Witt Jr. remains a key player, but the team needs more depth and power.

Trade rumors are swirling around Philadelphia Phillies' Alec Bohm, a talented third baseman who could significantly improve the Royals' lineup. Speculation suggests a potential trade involving Kris Bubic and Maikel Garcia could benefit both teams.